Bike to Work Scheme must be implemented
Published: 21 February, 2010
Sinn Féin Councillor Thérèse Ruane is calling for renewed efforts and commitment to implement the 'Bike to Work' Scheme. The roll out of this scheme introduced on 1 January 2009 has been a shambles to date. She is calling on government departments and all employers to register for this scheme and play their part in promoting cycling as a viable means of transport.
Thérèse Ruane said:
"The rollout of the Bike to Work Scheme has been a shambles to date. A number of people have contacted me here in Mayo, who want to cycle to work and have tried to access the new scheme through their employers including government departments and agencies, and have failed to do so. This isn't good enough. This scheme, introduced under Budget '09, is a great scheme which allows employees a tax exemption for the purchase of a new bike or associated cycle safety equipment to the value of 1000 euro. Any employer can register to participate on this scheme by registering on www.bikescheme.ie"
"Some departments such as Department of Education, An Gardaí Síochána, An Post, the EPA as well as employers such as Allergan, Bank of Ireland, Café Rua, APC have implemented this scheme. Here in Mayo, in recent weeks, there have been some positive moves.. Here in Mayo, in recent weeks, there have been some positive moves. Mayo County Council has included a budget allocation for the roll out of this scheme in Mayo this year for the first time. Employees of the HSE will also be able to participate on this scheme from the 1 March next. This is really positive and welcome. I'm appealing to employers and employees to sign up for this scheme by logging onto www.bikescheme.ie and play your part in promoting cycling and a healthier environment for all. You can also contact your local bike shop to find out how to avail of this scheme."
"A recent report highlights the serious decline in cycling since the 1980s. In 2006 less than 2% of commuters cycled to work which was down from 7% in 1986. There was also an 83% drop in the number of primary school children cycling to school between 1986 and 2006. We need to reverse this trend and work to encourage people of all ages to use their bicycles as a viable means of getting to school or work, getting around the town from A to B, and of course as a leisure activity at weekends or on holidays."
"The benefits of cycling are obvious. Using your bike is the fastest and most efficient way of getting around in towns and cities; a significant shift towards cycling will help our environment; and cycling has huge health benefits - cyclists have a life expectancy several years more than non-cyclists. So, using your bike, makes you healthier, saves you time and money - especially if you acquire your bicycle on the Bike to Work scheme!"
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